Sep 14, 2025

Pelvic Organ Prolapse:  Symptoms, Treatment, & Recovery for every stage of life.

Discover everything you need to know about pelvic organ prolapse after childbirth, including symptoms, treatment options, and how to strengthen your pelvic floor for long-term health.

What Every Woman and Mother Should Know About Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

If you're reading this article, you might be experiencing unusual symptoms after childbirth or during pregnancy, or perhaps your healthcare provider mentioned pelvic organ prolapse (POP) during a recent exam. Take a deep breath—you're not alone in this journey, and understanding your body is the first step toward healing and empowerment.

At Revolution Motherhood, we believe that every woman deserves access to comprehensive information about her pelvic health, especially during the transformative events of postpartum recovery and peri-menopause.  This guide will help you understand what pelvic organ prolapse is, why it happens, and most importantly, what you can do about it.

What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs—including the bladder, uterus, rectum, urethra, or small intestine—shift out of their normal position and press into or through the vaginal canal, or in some cases, the anus. This happens when the pelvic floor muscles, fascia, and ligaments that normally support these organs become weakened or damaged.

Think of your pelvic floor as a hammock of muscles and tissues that cradle your pelvic organs. When this "hammock" becomes stretched or torn, the organs it supports can begin to sag or bulge into spaces where they don't belong.

Watch our detailed explanation: "Pelvic Floor Anatomy 101"

The Reality: How Common Is Prolapse After Childbirth?

Here's something that might surprise you: pelvic organ prolapse is incredibly common among mothers. Research shows that 50-90% of postpartum women experience some degree of prolapse, though only 3-20% actually develop noticeable symptoms.

One landmark study examining women 1-4 years postpartum found that while most participants had some degree of prolapse detectable during examination, an impressive 80% experienced no symptoms whatsoever. In the general female population, approximately half of all women have some form of prolapse, though the majority remain asymptomatic.

Why don't we talk about this more? Unfortunately, pelvic health remains a topic shrouded in silence and shame. At Revolution Motherhood, we're committed to breaking down these barriers and creating open, supportive conversations about women's health.

For personalized guidance on postpartum recovery, explore our comprehensive postpartum wellness programs.

Recognizing the Signs: Pelvic Organ Prolapse Symptoms

Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms often develop gradually, which means you might not notice them immediately. Many women discover they have a prolapse only during a routine pelvic exam with their obstetrician-gynecologist or other healthcare provider.

Common Symptoms Include:

Physical Sensations:

• Feeling of pelvic pressure or fullness (often described as "something falling out")

• A noticeable bulge inside the vagina or protruding from the vaginal opening

• Lower back pain that doesn't improve with rest

• Discomfort when sitting for long periods

Urinary Symptoms:

• Leakage of urine during physical activity, coughing, or sneezing (stress urinary incontinence)

• Difficulty completely emptying the bladder

• Frequent urinary tract infections

Bowel-Related Issues:

• Problems having complete bowel movements

• Feeling of incomplete evacuation

• Constipation or difficulty with bowel control

Sexual and Daily Life Impact:

• Problems inserting tampons or menstrual cups

• Discomfort during sexual intercourse

• Difficulty with gynecological exams

Important note: The severity of symptoms doesn't always correlate with the degree of prolapse. Some women with significant prolapse experience minimal symptoms, while others with mild prolapse may have considerable discomfort.

Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Understanding Your Diagnosis

Understanding which type of prolapse you're experiencing can help you better communicate with your healthcare team and make informed decisions about treatment. Here are the main types:

Anterior Wall Prolapse

• Cystocele: The bladder bulges through the front vaginal wall

• Urethrocele: The urethra pushes into the vaginal wall or protrudes from the opening

Posterior Wall Prolapse

• Rectocele: The rectum presses into the back vaginal wall

• Enterocele: The small intestine pushes down from the top wall of the vagina

Central Prolapse

• Uterine Prolapse: The uterus and cervix descend into the vagina

Other Types

• Rectal Prolapse: The rectum protrudes through the anus (less common but can occur)

Many women experience more than one type of prolapse simultaneously. Your healthcare provider will assess the specific type and grade (severity) of your prolapse to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Explore our pelvic anatomy resources to better understand your body.

Did I Cause My Prolapse? ( No, You Didn't)

Let's address the elephant in the room: You did not cause your prolapse. This cannot be emphasized enough. Prolapse results from cumulative stress on your pelvic support structures over time—a complex interplay of factors including:

Pregnancy and Childbirth Factors:

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy that soften ligaments

• The weight of your growing baby pressing on pelvic structures

• The stretching that occurs during vaginal delivery

• Prolonged or difficult labor

• Use of forceps or vacuum during delivery

Other Contributing Factors:

• Genetic predisposition (family history of prolapse)

• Chronic coughing or respiratory conditions

• Heavy lifting or high-impact activities

• Chronic constipation and straining

• Aging and natural tissue changes

• Previous pelvic surgeries

Even if you can pinpoint the exact moment your symptoms began—perhaps during a workout or while lifting your toddler—remember that this was simply the "final straw" in a long process of accumulated stress on your pelvic support system.

Self-Compassion in Pelvic Health Recovery: RM Phase 1

The Importance of Pelvic Floor Health During and After Pregnancy

Your pelvic floor health affects far more than you might realize. These muscles support your pelvic organs, contribute to core stability, play a role in sexual function, and help maintain continence. When they're not functioning optimally, the effects can ripple through many aspects of your daily life.

The Statistics That Matter

Pelvic Floor Disorders After Childbirth:

• Up to 50% of women develop a pelvic floor disorder within 10 years of giving birth

• Stress urinary incontinence affects up to 54% of pregnant women; 31% continue to experience symptoms after birth

• Pelvic organ prolapse affects up to 30% of women after vaginal delivery, with risk increasing with multiple deliveries

Beyond the Physical: Quality of Life Impacts

Physical Limitations:

• Leakage during exercise, laughing, or sneezing

• Avoidance of physical activities you once enjoyed

• Discomfort during intimacy

• Chronic pain or pressure sensations

Emotional and Social Effects:

• Anxiety about leakage in social situations

• Shame or embarrassment about symptoms

• Decreased self-esteem and body confidence

• Strain on intimate relationships

• Social isolation due to fear of symptoms

Economic Impact:

• Cost of protective products and treatments

• Missed work days due to symptoms

• Potential career limitations

Learn evidence-based strategies in our comprehensive pelvic floor strengthening program HERE.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment and Recovery: Your Options and Next Steps

The good news is that effective treatments for pelvic organ prolapse exist, ranging from conservative management to surgical options. Your treatment plan will depend on several factors, including the type and severity of your prolapse, your symptoms, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences.

Conservative Treatment Options

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy:

• Specialized exercises to strengthen and coordinate pelvic floor muscles

• Manual therapy techniques

• Biofeedback training

• Education about proper body mechanics that build lifelong core strength

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Weight management strategies

• Constipation prevention and treatment

• Modification of high-impact activities

• Proper lifting techniques

Supportive Devices:

• Pessaries (supportive devices inserted into the vagina)

• Supportive undergarments

• Pelvic floor support products

When Surgery Might Be Considered

Surgical intervention is typically reserved for cases where conservative treatments haven't provided adequate relief and symptoms significantly impact quality of life. Modern surgical techniques have high success rates and can often be performed minimally invasively.

Empowering Your Recovery: Taking Action Early

The earlier you address pelvic floor concerns, the better your outcomes are likely to be. Here's how to take charge of your pelvic health:

Immediate Steps You Can Take

1. Start Pelvic Floor Exercises: That integrate your pelvic floor with your upper trunk and transversus abdominal muscles.  At RM, we call this your ‘pelvic corridor’.  

2. Optimize Your Bathroom Habits: Avoid straining, maintain good posture, and don't delay urges

3. Support Your Core: Learn proper breathing techniques and core stabilization

4. Seek Professional Guidance: Don't wait for symptoms to worsen

Finding the Right Healthcare Team

Who to See:

• Pelvic floor physical therapists

• Urogynecologists (specialists in pelvic floor disorders)

• Women's health physical therapists

• Certified pelvic health practitioners

Questions to Ask Your Provider:

• What type and grade of prolapse do I have?

• What are my treatment options?

• How will this affect my ability to have more children?

• What lifestyle modifications can help?

• When should I consider more advanced treatments?

Your Journey Forward: Resources and Support

Receiving a diagnosis of pelvic organ prolapse can feel overwhelming, but remember: you're not alone in this journey, and effective help is available. At Revolution Motherhood, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way with evidence-based information, expert guidance, and a community of women who understand what you're going through.

Comprehensive Support in the Revolution Motherhood App

• Beginner's Guide to Pelvic Floor Exercises: RM HEAL

• Intimacy and Relationship

Interactive Programs:

• RM HEAL: 8-Week Pelvic Floor Strengthening Program

• Postpartum Recovery Roadmap

• RM Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Incontinence Recovery Program

Community Support:

• Connect with other mothers experiencing similar challenges (RM What’s App Inner Circle)

• Ask questions in our moderated forums

• Share your journey and celebrate victories

Download the Revolution Motherhood App to access our complete library of pelvic health resources.

Additional Resources for Your Journey

More from Revolution Motherhood:

• Understanding Your Pelvic Floor Anatomy

• Exercise Modifications for Prolapse

• Nutrition and Pelvic Health

Clinical information and Dedicated Support:

• Latest Research on Prolapse Treatment

• APOPS Support Group

• Probiotics and Pelvic Health

There is Hope and Healing

Living with pelvic organ prolapse can feel isolating and overwhelming, but please know that you are stronger than you realize, and healing is absolutely possible. Your body has already accomplished the incredible feat of creating and nurturing life—it has the capacity to heal and adapt.

Recovery is rarely linear, and everyone's journey looks different. Some days will be better than others, and that's completely normal. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small victories, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

You deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and empowered in your body. With the right information, support, and treatment plan, you can reclaim your quality of life and continue to thrive as the amazing mother you are.

Your next steps:

1. Save this article as a reference for your healthcare appointments

2. Download the Revolution Motherhood App and begin healing today

3. Schedule an appointment with a pelvic health specialist

4. Connect with the Revolution Motherhood community of supportive mothers. Sign up for our newsletter below.

Remember: You are not broken. You are not alone. You are worthy of comprehensive care and support. Your healing journey starts now.

 

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Revolution Motherhood is dedicated to empowering women through evidence-based education, expert guidance, and supportive community. For more resources on pelvic health, postpartum recovery, and maternal wellness, explore our complete resource library or download our app today.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for diagnosis and treatment of pelvic health concerns.